Landlords and tenants may end up in small claims court for a variety of reasons, including unpaid rent and property damage. Landlords may sue tenants in small claims court for unpaid rent if:
The security deposit is not enough to cover the unpaid rent
The tenant broke a lease by leaving before the term ended
The tenant left without giving the required notice
Landlords may also sue tenants in small claims court for property damage if the tenant caused substantial damage beyond normal wear and tear.